c.1909-1910 Conklin Crescent-Filler 2NL Fountain Pen - FLEX STUB

Vintage: c.1909-10

Make: Conklin

Model: Crescent-Filler 2NL

Color: Black chased

Materials: Hard rubber, gold-filled trim

Filling System: Crescent-filler (resacced and guaranteed to fill to factory capacity)

Length: This full-sized model measures 5 7/16” capped. 

Nib: 14k Conklin Toledo #2 nib is a Flexible Factory Stub. Under normal pressure lays down a smooth and consistent F/M line (approx .5mm) on the down-strokes and XXF line on the cross-strokes – a great combination of smoothness and sharp variation more typical of factory grinds than of nibmeister regrinds. And the line widens to a 3B+ (approx 1.7mm) under moderate pressure. Versatile variation, strong snap-back, and reliable flow over its full range of flex, the stub grind keeping one’s letterforms neat and straight under flex.

Condition: Gold-plated trim shows no brassing or other notable blemishes. But the cap band does have a professionally engraved personalization in elegant Copperplate script: “John H. Marsh.” Hard rubber retains its dark black color, appearing black in most lighting conditions but revealing an even dark chocolate hue under direct bright light. Chasing is evenly sharp and crisp. HR surface is smooth and lustrous with no deep scratches or other notable flaws. Manufacturer imprint on the barrel is deep and fully legible – only ‘RK 2NL’ is slightly weaker.

Details: Something about the 100+ y/o obsolescent design of Conklin’s Crescent-Filler appeals to me. It’s the pen once touted in adverts by none other than Mark Twain. "I prefer it to ten other fountain pens,” writes Twain, “because it carries its filler in its own stomach, and I can not mislay even by art or intention. Also, I prefer it because it is a profanity saver; it cannot roll off the desk." Based on the manufacturer imprint and the clip’s earlier font as well as “pat. pending” stamp, this is an earlier production Crescent-Filler. It’s made of black chased hard rubber with a deluxe trim configuration including heavy, gold-filled cap band and Conklin’s newly patented rocker clip, which raises at the bottom when the top is depressed.